In an interview with BBC, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated his belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin has already begun World War III. He underscored the seriousness of the situation, questioning how much territory Russia will manage to seize and how the West can effectively halt its advances. Zelensky asserted that Russia's goal is to impose a different way of life on countries around the world and undermine the freedoms chosen by their peoples.

Addressing Russia's demands for Ukraine to withdraw from certain parts of the Donbas region in exchange for a ceasefire, Zelensky strongly rejected this idea. He viewed such a withdrawal as a betrayal of the hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians living in those areas and an action that would weaken Ukraine's position in the ongoing conflict. He emphasized the potential divisions this decision could cause within Ukrainian society, stating it would undermine national cohesion and strength.

Zelensky also expressed skepticism about the prospect of appeasing Putin by conceding complete control of the Donbas region, suggesting that any temporary gratification it might provide would eventually lead to further aggression. According to Zelensky, European partners estimate that it might take Putin three to five years to regroup before he seeks to expand his ambitions again, thereby highlighting the necessity of a firm and united front from Ukraine and its allies.